Synonymous with sustainable luxury, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas recently unveiled its latest awe-inspiring art installation. Transforming the property’s waterfall atrium, the 2020 Lunar New Year display features a 2,000-pound gilded rat and 18-foot dragon.
Year of the Rat | photo courtesy The Venetian Las Vegas
Handcrafted by The Venetian Resort’s floral and horticulture team and a group of artisans from California, the exhibit took one year from conceptualization to completion and pays homage to the Year of the Rat. The massive steel and gold painted rodent is situated on a bed of green foliage surrounded by a bevy of Chinese coins.
Year of the Rat | photo courtesy The Venetian Las Vegas
The first of 12 Chinese zodiac animals, the rat symbolize wealth and surplus.
“The Chinese zodiac is very deep and very traditional,” said Dana Beatty, executive director of floral operations. “We take the sensitivities of this cultural event very seriously. For example, I consult with a feng shui master in designing each art installation, to make sure we have considered all of the culture’s beliefs and requirements for such a display.”
Year of the Rat | photo courtesy The Venetian Las Vegas
In addition to the larger-than-life rodent, nine playful rats have been installed throughout the resort, including one at The Palazzo tower front desk that sits eight feet tall, as well as an ox, the secret friend of the rat.
To ring in the New Year, The Venetian will be hosting a ceremonial lion dance and eye ceremony on Jan. 25 at 3 p.m. The event will feature a parade of dancers and drummers in authentic costumes as well as fireworks.
Mott 32 | photo courtesy
To accompany the ceremony and dance, the property’s award-winning culinary gem Mott 32, is offering a selection of eight special dishes to celebrate Lunar New Year. The a la carte menu includes Maine lobster salad with Australian abalone, Crabmeat E-Fu noodles, Superior soup and other traditional Chinese delicacies. The menu is available through Feb. 2.
Wrapping up the weekend’s celebration is Joey Yung, also known as the diva of Chinese music. Delighting audiences since 1999, award-winning singer and actress has performed to sold-out crowds all over the world. Joey will bring two unforgettable nights of performances on Jan. 25 and 26, in The Palazzo Ballroom. Tickets can be purchased online, at any box office at The Venetian Resort, or by calling 866.641.7469.
